Solving LCM Word Problems Effectively

Mr. Mason explains a word problem involving two bus routes with different arrival intervals. The problem requires finding when both buses will arrive at the same time again. Key terms like 'every' and 'same' are identified to indicate a least common multiple problem. The solution involves calculating the schedules for both buses and determining the least common multiple of their intervals, then converting the result from minutes to hours.

What is the frequency of bus route A's arrival at its stop?

• Every 10 minutes

• Every 15 minutes

• Every 25 minutes

• Every 20 minutes

How often does bus route B arrive at its stop?

• Every 35 minutes

• Every 30 minutes

• Every 40 minutes

• Every 45 minutes

What does the word 'every' indicate in the context of the problem?

• Subtraction

• Division

• Addition

• Multiples

What mathematical concept does the word 'same' refer to in the problem?

• Average

• Unique

• Common

• Difference

What is the least common multiple (LCM) of 15 and 40?

• 150

• 120

• 90

• 60

How many minutes later will both buses arrive at the same time?

• 150 minutes

• 120 minutes

• 90 minutes

• 60 minutes

How many hours are there in 120 minutes?

• 1 hour

• 1.5 hours

• 2.5 hours

• 2 hours

What is the final answer to the problem in terms of hours?

• 2.5 hours

• 1.5 hours

• 1 hour

• 2 hours

Why is it important to convert minutes to hours in this problem?

• Because hours are easier to calculate

• Because the buses run on an hourly schedule

• Because the problem asks for the answer in hours

• Because minutes are too small to measure

What should you do if you see the word 'every' in a word problem?

• Look for addition

• Look for subtraction

• Look for division

• Look for multiples